Bayer Leverkusen to Be Without Key Defender Due to Pre-Match Surgery

OP-Shock Before Bundesliga Clash

Bayer Leverkusen has been dealt a major blow ahead of their crucial Bundesliga clash with Borussia Dortmund, as defender Edmond Tapsoba is set to undergo surgery and will miss the match.

The 23-year-old Burkina Faso international sustained an injury in training on Friday and underwent surgery on Saturday morning. The club has not disclosed the nature of the injury, but it is believed to be a serious one.

Tapsoba's absence will be a major blow to Leverkusen, who are already without several other key players due to injury. The center-back has been a mainstay in the Leverkusen defense this season, making 15 appearances in all competitions.

His absence is likely to force coach Xabi Alonso to make changes to his starting lineup. Piero Hincapie is the most likely candidate to replace Tapsoba alongside Jonathan Tah at the heart of defense.

Bayer Leverkusen will be hoping to bounce back from their disappointing 3-2 defeat to Augsburg last weekend when they face Borussia Dortmund on Saturday. The match is scheduled to kick off at 15:30 CET (14:30 GMT) at the BayArena.